Audio-Visual Entrainment Neuromodulation: A Review of Technical and Functional Aspects

Masoud Rahmani ¹, Leonor Josefina Romero Lauro ², Alberto Pisoni ²

⁰School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, 20126 Milan, Italy.

Brain Sciences +

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October 29, 2025

View abstract on PubMed

Summary

Audiovisual Entrainment (AVE) uses light and sound to synchronize brain activity. While accessible, current research shows mixed results, indicating a need for more standardized studies before considering AVE a reliable therapy.

Area Of Science

Neuromodulation
Neuroscience
Sensory Processing

Background

Audiovisual Entrainment (AVE) is a non-invasive technique using auditory and visual stimuli to synchronize brain activity.
AVE is explored for various clinical applications, but protocols and terminology are inconsistent.

Purpose Of The Study

To conduct a structured narrative review of Audiovisual Entrainment (AVE).
To survey AVE's history, technical parameters, applications, and safety.
To propose a framework for standardizing AVE parameter reporting.

Main Methods

Structured narrative review of studies from PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar (up to July 2025).
Inclusion criteria required studies to meet an operational definition of regulated AVE with specified auditory and visual frequencies.
Focus on studies reporting critical methodological details.

Main Results

AVE is accessible and versatile, with various technical parameters influencing outcomes.
Current findings on AVE efficacy are heterogeneous, with some studies reporting null or limited effects.
Mechanistic understanding and parameter optimization for AVE require further development.

Conclusions

Standardization of AVE protocols and terminology is crucial.
Premature claims of AVE efficacy are not supported by current evidence.
Rigorous, standardized, and controlled studies are necessary to establish AVE as a reliable therapeutic tool.

Keywords:

audio-visual entrainment entrainment neuromodulation